Broadleys HVAChttp://broadleys.net
A Broad Range of Energy SolutionsMon, 11 Sep 2017 17:04:13 +0000en-UShourly1https://wordpress.org/?v=4.8.2What size AC do you really need?http://broadleys.net/size-ac-unit-need/
Tue, 29 Aug 2017 17:47:47 +0000http://broadleys.net/?p=1029Why Is Purchasing the Correct Size Air Conditioner So Important? It is a common misconception that the bigger the air conditioner, the cooler your home will get. If a homeowner is mis-informed or doesn’t consult an HVAC professional, he or she may purchase the wrong size unit. Energy bills and comfort will be effected if […]

It is a common misconception that the bigger the air conditioner, the cooler your home will get. If a homeowner is mis-informed or doesn’t consult an HVAC professional, he or she may purchase the wrong size unit. Energy bills and comfort will be effected if this happens.

Here are some of the factors that are considered when choosing the correct size unit:

-Size of the area you are looking to cool

-Home orientation and sun/shade

-If your home is very shaded from the sun, you won’t require as much power.

-How well the walls and air ducts are insulted

-Number of people that live in the home

-The age and condition of the home

-Existing ventilation system

Purchasing a unit that is too large for your home, would not only cost more, but you would see a decrease in the comfort you receive from your unit. It will cool your house faster, but will be turning on and off more often, thus running shorter cycles and wasting energy. Purchasing a unit that is too small for your home may cause it to not get cool enough for your comfort and liking.

Air conditioners come in various sizes and it can be difficult to know what is best for you. Leave it to the professional, no need for online calculators. The HVAC experts at Broadley’s will evaluate your space and help you select the best unit for your home. Give us a call today at 609-390-3907 to set up an appointment.

Central AC and window units are common cooling methods, but they work in different ways. Window units generally cool rooms, whereas central HVAC units cool entire homes or businesses. While some may prefer the lower price tag and simplicity a window unit can offer, we want to discuss the reasons we believe a new central AC unit will be beneficial in the long run.

While window units are generally less expensive to operate, their efficiency is lower than that of a central AC unit. In order to cool the same amount of space that a central unit does, you would have to purchase multiple window units, which can add up. If you are cooling three or more rooms, it will benefit you in the long run to have a central unit. It will be more cost effective and energy-efficient.

Window units can be set to a certain temperature but if you have more than one unit, you need to change them all accordingly. If it gets too cold in the room with the window unit, it may still be warm in other rooms. With a central air conditioning unit, you can adjust the temperature from one thermostat for the whole home. We also offer Wi-Fi thermostats which allow you to control the temperature of individual rooms, even while away from home.

While window units can be a DIY project, they may not always be sealed perfectly which can let cold or warm air out, depending on the time of year. This can lead to a waste of energy and money. We make sure that the systems we install are working perfectly and we’ll gladly come back if you have any issues.

Lastly, humidity is another factor to consider. Central units do a much better job of controlling humidity and filtering the air for allergens and pollutants.

Age and size of home, insulation, and other factors can also play a part in what makes the best option for you. The comfort specialists at Broadley’s can assess your home and determine which central AC unit is best for you. If your only hesitation is the price, we also offer financing options. Call us today at 609-390-3907.

]]>Make Your Air Conditioning Run More Efficientlyhttp://broadleys.net/make-air-conditioning-run-efficiently/
http://broadleys.net/make-air-conditioning-run-efficiently/#respondThu, 06 Jul 2017 20:26:49 +0000http://broadleys.net/?p=946Keeping your home cool, without spending what seems like an arm and a leg on an energy bill, can be a challenge during the hottest days of summer at the shore. Below are a few helpful tips that will not only help your air conditioning unit run more efficiently, but could also save you money. […]

]]>Keeping your home cool, without spending what seems like an arm and a leg on an energy bill, can be a challenge during the hottest days of summer at the shore. Below are a few helpful tips that will not only help your air conditioning unit run more efficiently, but could also save you money.

Check for leaks – Make sure that there are no cracks or worn seals on windows or doors that could be letting cold air out of your home. You can check this yourself by running your hand along edges of windows and doors to feel if cold air is escaping. Caulk and insulation can help solve this problem.

Programmable thermostats – Programmable thermostats allow you to save energy because you are able to adjust the temperature and control the HVAC unit when you aren’t home. Wifi thermostats allow you to control the temperature of your home from a mobile device. Keep your house warmer than normal when you aren’t home, and lower the thermostat setting to 78°F when you are home and your house needs cooling. Check out our blog post to learn more about the benefits of a wifi thermostat.

Keeping your unit protected from the sun – This can help with energy efficiency. Also, removing any debris that has accumulated in the system can help the efficiency of the unit.

Change dirty air filters – Air filters are a common oversight, but they should be changed every 1-3 months to increase energy efficiency and air flow.

Close your blinds – During the hottest part of the day, don’t let the outside heat warm up your home. Closing your blinds helps to keep your home cooler.

Fans – Using fans helps air move around the room, which makes the room cooler. If you utilize fans, your HVAC will not have to work as hard to maintain an even temperature.

Replace your unit – Last but not least, take some time to think about how old your AC unit is. While your out-of-date air conditioning unit may work, there are new, more efficient models that will save you money and energy in the long run. Our experts could help you decide upon the best unit for your home and budget.

Also, Freon (R-22) air conditioners are being phased out as the cost to charge the unit is now upwards of $500. So, if you have one of these air conditioning units, you will definitely want to look into a new one. While a new unit may seem like a large investment, it will be well worth it. We also offer financing options. Inquire to find out more.

Along with these tips, having your AC unit regularly serviced is key to its efficiency. If your AC unit isn’t functioning efficiently, call the comfort specialists at Broadley’s. We will assess the problem and offer a solution, whether it be a quick fix or a new unit. Give us a call today to schedule a service appointment at 609-390-3907 or schedule online HERE.

]]>http://broadleys.net/make-air-conditioning-run-efficiently/feed/0Why Is My AC Unit Making This Noise?http://broadleys.net/ac-unit-making-noise/
http://broadleys.net/ac-unit-making-noise/#respondMon, 22 May 2017 17:37:41 +0000http://broadleys.net/?p=909It seems the warm weather is here to stay and that means your AC unit is entering its prime season. The last thing you want to be stuck with on a hot, humid day is a broken unit. That is why you should keep in mind that if you hearing abnormal sounds coming from your […]

]]>It seems the warm weather is here to stay and that means your AC unit is entering its prime season. The last thing you want to be stuck with on a hot, humid day is a broken unit. That is why you should keep in mind that if you hearing abnormal sounds coming from your unit, you may need an inspection. These could be signs of your unit malfunctioning.

Here are some of the common sounds and their associated issues:

Banging – This can be caused by a loose or broken part such as a connecting rod, piston pin or crankshaft moving around inside the compressor. Banging could also mean that your compressor needs replaced.

Buzzing – This sound can be sign of various issues including: outdoor fan motor, blade, or other parts being loose, debris, copper lines rubbing, condenser coil needing cleaned, dirty air filter, blower is going bad or a refrigerant leak.

Screaming – When heard at your outdoor compressor, this is usually a sign of a refrigerant leak. This type of sounds could not only damage your air conditioner, but it may be detrimental to your family’s health. This sound can also indicate a build-up of pressure causing the compressor to make that noise. This is also extremely dangerous and you should shut off your AC as soon as possible.

Clanking – This type of sound is another indication that a part may be loose or off track. The compressor could be loose and need replaced. Also, the blower or fan could be off-balance, hitting other parts. A sound like this should specifically not be ignored because this can create a bigger issue over time.

Rattling – This can be a sign of age and deterioration. Parts like the fan could be loosening and rattling around inside the component. Also, be sure to check your unit for any leaves or debris that could be clogging it.

Constant clicking and fan not turning on –Electrical problems that cause the thermostat message to be interrupted can produce this sound. This can also be because the relay switch has gone bad. Have this checked out as soon as possible.

Humming– Humming isn’t cause of concern, but could mean something is loose causing some extra vibration. This sound can also indicate electrical issues like loose wiring in the motor. Humming escalates to a bigger racket, which can bring a larger issue.

The type of sound your AC unit may be making is not limited to the ones listed above.And regardless of which one of these you may be experiencing, any abnormal sound coming from your AC unit should be checked out by a professional. Any problem that goes untreated could create an even larger issue down the line. Type of sound and frequency of the sound can be a huge indicator when troubleshooting the problem, so make note of these two items so your technician at Broadley’s can make a more informed diagnosis. Also, be sure to schedule regular maintenance of your unit.

Contact your coastal comfort specialists at Broadley’s today to schedule your service appointment. Call 609-390-3907 or schedule an appointment online. In case of an emergency, we have an answering service available 7 days a week until 10pm.

]]>http://broadleys.net/ac-unit-making-noise/feed/0Freon (R-22) Will Soon Become Obsoletehttp://broadleys.net/freon-r-22-will-soon-become-obsolete/
http://broadleys.net/freon-r-22-will-soon-become-obsolete/#respondThu, 13 Apr 2017 18:09:48 +0000http://broadleys.net/?p=899Your air conditioner’s refrigerant may become obsolete by 2020! Freon, also known as R-22, is being officially phased out due to its ozone-depleting properties. Unfortunately, here at the South Jersey shore, the majority of the AC units we service use Freon.

]]>Keeping your shore house cool? Homeowners will feel the heat of the the Freon deadline this summer.

Your air conditioner’s refrigerant may become obsolete by 2020.

Freon, also known as R-22, is being officially phased out due to its ozone-depleting properties. Unfortunately, here at the South Jersey shore, the majority of the AC units we service use Freon. If your air conditioning unit was built before 2010, there’s a good chance yours does too.

R-22 refrigerant costs will keep rising as coolant is officially phased out

About 25 years ago, environmental concerns about R-22 refrigerant led to a nationally-mandated phase out plan from the Environmental Protection Agency. As of 2010, manufacturers ceased production on AC units charged with R-22. In 2020, production of this chemical will stop completely. So why should you care? Because decrease in supply leads to steep increase in price, and this ban will have a major effect on air-conditioning costs.

Freon is now far from free

Does this story sound familiar? Your air conditioner stopped blowing cold air, and you called to have it serviced. Your HVAC rep detected a small leak in the line and realized it needed more refrigerant. A simple Freon top-off at a very low service charge and you were back in business. Maybe you’ve extended the life of your AC unit for years this way. Well prepare yourself for some serous sticker shock.

“This year the cost of R-22 will reach its highest point yet,” said Brian Broadley of Broadley’s Energy Solutions. “The minimum to charge a unit will be over $500, and that’s just for the gas alone. Homeowners trying to maintain a leaky R-22 air conditioner may end up paying more than it would cost to purchase an entirely new cooling system.”

Now through June 1, 2017, Broadley’s will give you a $500 credit toward new AC unit

For homeowners with an older unit (2010 or prior), it may be more cost-effective to invest in a new AC system. Upgrading from your old R-22 unit not only reduces your impact on the environment, but a high-efficiency system will greatly reduce your energy costs, putting money back in your pocket. Even if your air conditioner is only 10 years old, you may see significant energy saving by replacing it with a newer, more efficient model. Longer warranty periods, quieter operation and unlimited supplies of coolant, will further add to your peace of mind.

Extended financing plans are available and Broadley’s is offering you $500 off the cost of your replacement unit through June 1, 2017. This is a limited time offer, so act now by calling 609-390-3907 or visiting broadleys.net. Not sure if your unit uses Freon? We can find that out for you, too!

]]>http://broadleys.net/freon-r-22-will-soon-become-obsolete/feed/0Furnaces: Common Problems Experiencedhttp://broadleys.net/furnaces-common-problems-experienced/
http://broadleys.net/furnaces-common-problems-experienced/#respondThu, 09 Feb 2017 19:05:22 +0000http://broadleys.net/?p=861After the winter season, it is recommended you have your furnace inspected for any possible issues. Broadley's put together a list of common issues people see with their furnaces.

]]>Fortunately for many, this winter has been quite mild and you may not have had to run your heater as much as expected. However, that does not mean you are guaranteed to avoid issues with your furnace and should have a professional inspect the unit if you are experiencing any of the issues below. If not, furnaces should still be inspected before the weather warms up for good in the spring.

Pilot Light– If your furnace has started to regularly blow cold air during these winter months, this may be caused by the pilot light being out or ignition problems.

Filter – A dirty or clogged furnace filter can inhibit airflow, causing your home to be less heated than it should be. With a large portion of your energy bill coming from heating your home, you want to be sure you’re getting as much heat as you should. Filters should be changed about every two months.

Airflow –Not only can a dirty filter cause lack of airflow from your furnace, but so can worn out bearings and broken belts. Your thermostat could also be broken if you are experiencing a reduced amount of heat in your home.

Noise –Rattling, squeaking and any other unusual sounds in your furnace should be addressed as soon as possible. These could be signs of a mechanical problem, issues with airflow or a clogged burner.

Normal wear & tear –As your furnace gets older, it is bound to decrease in efficiency, but having it continue to run when broken is not safe. A proper furnace repair is good protocol to follow before repairs get extensive and expensive.

Lack of Maintenance – To ensure your furnace lasts as long as possible, inspections need to be done twice a year. Those times are when you first turn it on and when warm weather comes.

If you are experiencing any of these issues with your furnace or would like to schedule an appointment to prevent these problems, call Broadley’s at (609) 390-3907. We also offer our customers many financing options, so make sure to ask! Don’t delay, call today!

]]>http://broadleys.net/furnaces-common-problems-experienced/feed/0Ecobee: Must Have Wi-Fi Thermostathttp://broadleys.net/ecobee-must-have-wifi-thermostat/
http://broadleys.net/ecobee-must-have-wifi-thermostat/#respondWed, 25 Jan 2017 16:01:37 +0000http://broadleys.net/?p=142Wi-Fi thermostats are one of the hottest trends on the homeowner market right now, making life easier and your home more efficient. Check out the amazing benefits of the ecobee3 and how Broadley's can install yours today!

]]>Comfort is key when it comes to enjoying your home, no matter the temperature outside. Broadley’s has made it their mission to make sure everyone is as comfortable as possible, whether it be installing a new furnace or spreading the word on Wi-Fi thermostats. A new addition to the Wi-Fi thermostat craze that’s changing households for the better is the ecobee3. This new way of heating and cooling your home just made comfort that much more attainable! Wondering why?

• Controlled by any smart phone, tablet, or computer for access around the house or on the go

• Compatible with an easily downloadable app, as well as, Siri

• Controls the temperature of more than one room to create even temperatures throughout the entire house

• Uses motion sensors to create comfort in the rooms that matter most (detects motion, or the absence of, to raise and lower temperatures)

• Conserves energy when you leave home

• Saves homeowners around 23% on annual energy costs

• Adjusts inside temperatures according to outside temperatures

• Available in sleek, modern designs

The holidays may be over, but it’s always the perfect time to treat yourself to comfort. Broadley’s is ready to install this amazing new ecobee3 thermostat in your home today! Call us at (609) 390-3907 for a no-obligation assessment with one of our Comfort Advisors.

]]>Temperatures are dropping quickly and winter is here to stay. A serious issue that all homeowners should be aware of is the risk of frozen pipes. The damages from frozen pipes can rack up to thousands of dollars in repairs to the pipes and property. Broadley’s is here to remind you of these simple steps to take, ensuring a safe winter season.

Insulate Water Pipes

The insulation will slow down the cold’s effect to the pipes, but does not necessarily prevent freezing.

Disconnect Garden Hoses

If there is water in the hose, it can freeze and eventually make its way through the spigot and into your pipes. To maintain the lifespan of your hose, move them indoors for the winter.

Know Common Frozen Pipe Locations

As mentioned earlier, insulate these pipes in particular and keep an eye on them throughout the winter when temperatures drop below 32° F.

Keep Thermostats No Lower Than 55° F

Even if you leave the house for a few days, make sure temperatures are at least 55° F. Frozen pipes often happen while people are on vacation and forget the house needs to remain somewhat heated.

Turn Water Off When Away

If you plan to go away for a few days, turn off your main water supply and make sure all facets are drained.

Keep Certain Doors and Windows Closed

If your water supply is in your garage, make sure to keep the doors closed as much as possible. It is also recommended to keep windows located near pipes closed and to close open-air vents to prevent wind drafts during very low temperatures.

Open Cabinet Doors

When temperatures drop below 32° F, it is recommended you leave cabinet doors open that are located below sinks so that the heat from your home can warm the pipes.

Consider a Wi-Fi Thermostat

Not only does owning a Wi-Fi thermostat make your life easier and more comfortable, allowing you to stay in bed while you heat the home or to have your home heated before you return from vacation, but it can save you from the nightmare of frozen or busted pipes. Broadley’s recommends brands such as Nest, Honeywell or Ecobee. Call them for installs or to learn more about each!

If you find yourself in a situation with frozen or busted pipes, and are unsure how to handle it, give Broadley’s a call at (609) 390-3907. Remember, if your pipes do burst, make sure to turn off your water right away!

]]>http://broadleys.net/preventing-frozen-pipes/feed/0NBC10: ‘Jersey Shore Homeowners Get Ready for Winter Weather’http://broadleys.net/nbc10-jersey-shore-homeowners-get-ready-winter-weather/
http://broadleys.net/nbc10-jersey-shore-homeowners-get-ready-winter-weather/#respondMon, 05 Dec 2016 15:53:24 +0000http://broadleys.net/?p=841Thank you NBC10 for sharing such an important reminder to all homeowners regarding the cold weather and winterizing your shore home. Make sure you take the time to winterize your home before it’s too late, as busted pipes can cost you thousands of dollars in damage!

]]>Thank you NBC10 for sharing such an important reminder to all homeowners regarding the cold weather and winterizing your shore home. Make sure you take the time to winterize your home before it’s too late, as busted pipes can cost you thousands of dollars in damage!

]]>http://broadleys.net/nbc10-jersey-shore-homeowners-get-ready-winter-weather/feed/0Why Switch To Natural Gas?http://broadleys.net/why-switch-to-natural-gas/
http://broadleys.net/why-switch-to-natural-gas/#respondTue, 22 Nov 2016 16:13:41 +0000http://broadleys.net/?p=151There’s been a lot of talk about natural gas as it becomes more available to South Jersey, but what exactly is it and why should you consider switching? Learn more about the benefits and your options about switching.

]]>There’s been a lot of talk about natural gas as it becomes more available to South Jersey, but what exactly is it and why should you consider switching? Natural gas is a colorless and odorless fossil fuel that is being spotlighted as an excellent energy alternative in the United States and around the world. Broadley’s is here to offer some deeper insight regarding the fuel’s benefits that may make you realize it’s time to convert.

Efficiency

It makes sense to switch to a gas that saves you money and produces the greatest amount of energy for the money spent. About 90 percent of natural gas is delivered as useful energy, while this holds true for only 30 percent of energy converted to electricity in conventional generating facilities.

Clean Air for Your Family and Community

This is a huge plus for those considering alternate energy options. It is the cleanest burning fossil fuel, with very little byproducts polluting the air. Keeping your family safe and healthy is always the main priority. If there’s a less expensive alternate fuel option that will make your community healthier for your family, why wouldn’t you switch? In addition, gas means no soot, ash or unwelcomed odors. Compared to oil and gas, natural gas produces a significantly less amount of carbon dioxide, sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxide, and particulate matter that affects health and the air’s visibility.

Safe

It is important to know that natural gas in non-toxic. It is not poisonous or harmful to humans if inhaled in small amounts. To help detect a leak, an odorant is added to the originally odorless gas. There are no storage tanks needed, which removes the threat of oil spills and tank corrosion. The gas is piped directly to your home or business through a safe and efficient pipeline system.

Natural gas is quickly gaining popularity. It is highly dependable since it’s not easily damaged or affected by changing weather conditions. Broadley’s is all about keeping you comfortable in ways that make sense for your wallet, the test of time and your family’s safety. Give Broadley’s a call today at (609) 390-3907 for questions about switching to natural gas and the appliances needed to keep your home up-to-date on all of today’s best energy solutions.